Influenza

Influenza is an acute viral infection that spreads easily from person to person in any age group and that can cause serious complications in certain risk groups. In addition to seasonal epidemics, influenza pandemics can occur when a new influenza virus subtype emerges or when an animal influenza virus begins to spread among humans.

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While influenza may be unpleasant and inconvenient for some, others run a higher risk of developing complications. This makes it all the more crucial that they receive an influenza vaccine every winter, which can protect them from falling ill from the most common strains of the virus.

Pandemic Influenza Preparedness (PIP) Framework

Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV)

This novel coronavirus was first reported to WHO in September 2012. The majority of cases have respiratory disease, from mild symptoms to severe pneumonia. The newest cases reported indicate that the source of infection remains active in the Middle East and is present throughout a large area.